Consideration must therefore be given to the loss of or injury to important organisms both directly (e.g., through destruction of vegetation) or indirectly (e.g., through contamination of water sup- plies)
Ecosystem management, at least as considered in transportation planning. is a relatively new concept (see, for example, [Herbstritt and Marble, 1996]). The U.S. DOT in 1995 developed guidance to statcs and urban areas as to how ecosystem considerations should be incorporated into planning.
As noted by Garrett and Bank [1995]:
The ecosystem approach is characterized as a method for sustaining or restoring natural systems and their functions and values.
It is goal driven, and is based on a collaboratively developed vision of desired future conditions that integrates ecological ,economic, and social factors.